Kerry Betros receives honour for exceptional service to the customer-owned banking sector

23 October 2024

Retiring People First Bank Deputy Chairman Kerry Betros AM has been honoured for his 33-year contribution to the customer-owned banking sector with his induction into the Business Council of Co-operatives and Mutuals (BCCM) Honour Roll last night (Tuesday, 22 October).

The BCCM Honour Roll is a virtual ‘hall of fame’, celebrating outstanding leaders of the co-operative and mutual sector and acknowledging their contributions to their industry.

Kerry Betros will retire from the Board of People First Bank at its AGM on 14 November after three decades of service. His tenure includes serving as Chairman of Heritage Bank from 2012 until the 2023 merger that created People First Bank, where he has since held the role of Deputy Chairman.

“Kerry has been a passionate advocate for the customer-owned banking sector and the communities of South East Queensland,” said People First Bank Chairman Michael Cameron.
“His commitment to mutuality is demonstrated through his role in bringing Heritage Bank and People’s Choice together in the merger, with the goal of creating a strong, sustainable, national customer-owned bank.

“Kerry’s vision and leadership have played a pivotal role in ensuring that the customer-owned banking model is recognised as a compelling alternative to the big banks.”
BCCM CEO Melina Morrison praised Kerry’s contribution to the sector and the community.

“Kerry has shown remarkable vision and leadership, capping his 33 years on the Board with the evolution of Heritage Bank to People First Bank. He is a champion of the benefits of mutuality, a successful leader of Betros Bros and a man dedicated to community service,” she said.

Kerry’s leadership has previously been recognised with the Centenary Medal (2001), an Honorary Doctorate of Business from the University of Southern Queensland (2019), and his appointment as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2021 for his contributions to banking, the retail food industry, and the community.